Welcome to our Bucharest, Romania travel guide! We found ourselves in Bucharest unexpectedly on the way to Madrid because flights to Romania were surprisingly more budget-friendly. Little did we know that this bustling capital city would become a delightful stopover filled with hidden gems waiting to be explored. From its rich history and charming architecture to its vibrant cultural scene and delicious cuisine, Bucharest captured my heart and ignited my curiosity. Join me as we delve into the wonders of Bucharest together—whether it’s a planned visit or an unexpected detour, this city is sure to leave a lasting impression!
Table of Contents
Introduction
Bucharest, Romania’s capital and largest city, offers a fascinating blend of old and new. The old city, with its wide boulevards and beautiful historic buildings, recalls Bucharest’s past as the “little Paris of the East”. But the new city shows how dynamic and diverse Bucharest has become in the 21st century. The city preserves some superb art nouveau and neoclassical monuments while also constantly reinventing itself with modern architecture, hip cafes, and vibrant street art.
Whether you’re wandering the historic Lipscani district, exploring Romania’s painful communist era at the Palace of Parliament, or just relaxing in one of the city’s green parks, you’ll find Bucharest has lots to see and do in just a day. Its cosmopolitan dining and nightlife scenes offer abundant options as well. A diverse city with French, Turkish, and Balkan influences, Bucharest charms visitors with its eclectic character. It maintains a grittier edge compared to other European capitals, while also revealing a sophisticated cultural side.
A day is just enough to get a taste of Bucharest highlights, but you’ll likely leave wanting to discover more of this dynamic, multi-faceted city. Its intriguing blend of past and present makes Bucharest well worth a visit.
Getting to Bucharest
Romania’s capital and largest city, Bucharest is easily accessible via plane, train, car, and bus.
The main airport serving Bucharest is Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP), located just 16 km north of the city center. OTP connects Bucharest with major European hubs like London, Paris, Frankfurt, Munich, and Amsterdam via over 50 airlines. Many budget carriers like Wizz Air, Ryanair, and Blue Air offer cheap direct flights to Bucharest from cities across Europe.
Inside Romania, Bucharest is connected by direct trains to all major cities like Cluj-Napoca, Sibiu, Brasov, Constanta, and Timisoara. Fast intercity trains can get you from other parts of Romania to Bucharest in 3-5 hours. Bucharest’s main railway station Gara de Nord handles most national and international arrivals.
Bucharest is also connected to European cities by international bus routes run by Eurolines and Flixbus. Journeys by bus tend to be cheaper but longer than trains.
Driving to Bucharest from elsewhere in Romania takes 3-6 hours depending on your starting point. The city is connected to the A1 and A2 motorways. Coming from Bulgaria, the fastest land border crossing is at Giurgiu/Ruse, 60 km south of Bucharest.
Top Things to See and Do
Bucharest’s Old Town is full of historic architecture, lively restaurants, cafes, and bars. Take a walking tour to see landmarks like the Old Princely Court, Hanul Manuc Inn, and Stavropoleos Church.
The enormous Palace of Parliament is a must-see, exemplifying the grandiose excess of the Ceausescu regime. Guided tours reveal an endless succession of ornate halls, conference rooms, and chambers.
Art lovers shouldn’t miss the National Museum of Art, showcasing Romanian art from medieval times to the present. The Museum of the Romanian Peasant offers an in-depth look at Romanian folk culture and traditions.
Nature enthusiasts can relax in one of Bucharest’s many parks and gardens. Herastrau Park has lush greenery, a lake with paddleboats, and the Village Museum, an outdoor ethnographic museum.
Cismigiu Gardens is Bucharest’s oldest park, with weeping willow trees, a lake, and a Monet-inspired footbridge. The Botanical Garden features over 10,000 species of plants from around the world.
Take a walking tour for a unique insight into Bucharest’s culture, history, food, and architecture. Options include general city tours, communist Bucharest tours, or specialized tours focusing on literature, music or the Jewish heritage of the city.
Morning Suggested Itinerary
Spend your morning exploring Bucharest’s charming Old Town. Start with breakfast at one of the many cafes in the area – try local favorites like mici (grilled minced meat rolls), papanasi (fried doughnuts), or oua ochiuri (fried eggs).
After breakfast, take a walking tour through the winding cobblestone streets of Old Town. Admire the architecture as you pass historic buildings and churches like Stavropoleos Church and Manuc’s Inn.
Don’t miss Bucharest’s iconic Arc de Triumf. After being built in 1922 to honor Romanian soldiers who fought in World War I, it has become a landmark of the city. Snap some photos in front of the arch before continuing your walk.
Other top sights to see in the morning include the vast Parliament Palace, the world’s second-largest administrative building. Schedule a tour in advance to explore its lavish interior and gardens.
Spend some time relaxing in Cismigiu Gardens near Old Town. Bucharest’s oldest public garden provides a peaceful respite from the bustling city. Stroll along the pond, watch the locals play chess, or grab a coffee from the garden cafe.
Afternoon Suggested Itinerary
After a busy morning of sightseeing, you’ll likely be ready for a relaxing afternoon in Bucharest. Here are some suggestions for how to spend your afternoon:
Lunch
Caru’ cu Bere is a famous traditional Romanian restaurant located in a historic building in the Old Town. It’s a great spot for hearty, authentic dishes like stuffed cabbage rolls, meatball soup, and mititei sausages.
Another option is Lacrimi și Sfinți, a trendy restaurant with a beautiful courtyard patio. They serve modern European cuisine with a Romanian twist. Be sure to try their popular iced coffee.
For a quick and casual lunch, check out Simbio, a vegetarian buffet with excellent salads and hot dishes. It’s affordable and healthy.
Top Afternoon Activities
Walk through the vast Carol Park, especially nice on a sunny day. The rose garden and Romanesque Revival arches are highlights. Stop for a drink at the lakefront cafe pavilion.
Tour the Parliament Palace, the world’s second-largest administrative building. The opulent interior and sheer scale of the building is jaw-dropping. 1.5 hour guided tours are available in the afternoon.
Relax at one of Bucharest’s thermal spas, such as Therme or Bamboo Spa. Spend the afternoon soaking in warm mineral pool waters, indulging in massage therapies, and sweating out toxins in the sauna. Blissful spa days are popular here.
Stroll down Victorei Avenue to admire the elegant early 20th century architecture. Pop into shops and galleries along this artsy pedestrian street.
End your afternoon people watching from an Old Town cafe patio before the evening activities begin. Energiea Art Club Cafe has great coffee and homemade desserts.
Evening Suggested Itinerary
When the sun goes down, Bucharest comes alive with vibrant nightlife and entertainment options. Here are some recommendations for how to spend your evening in Romania’s capital:
Dinner
Caru’ cu Bere is a famous historical restaurant in Bucharest’s Old Town that has been serving traditional Romanian food since 1879. With long wooden tables and wait staff dressed in folk costumes, it provides an authentic dining experience along with delicious local dishes like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mititei (grilled minced meat rolls), and papanasi (sweet cheese fritters). Make reservations in advance.
For a romantic dinner, check out Lacrimi si Sfinti restaurant located in a 19th century mansion. The contemporary twists on Romanian cuisine and gorgeous courtyard setting make this a memorable place for a special evening out. Don’t miss their mouthwatering slow-cooked lamb.
Evening Activities
Take in a performance at the Bucharest National Opera House. This impressive building was founded in the 1920s and has a full calendar of opera, ballet, and classical music events. Evening wear is recommended.
For laughs, Bucharest has a thriving stand-up comedy scene. Spotlight Comedy Club hosts nightly shows in English by local and international comedians. It’s an intimate venue with a buzzing atmosphere.
Nightlife
Old Town Bucharest is the place to go for buzzing nightlife. Walk through the lively cobblestone streets and check out the many pubs, bars, and clubs located in the historic city center. LGBTQ hotspots like Club Fratelli and PUB 13 are popular late-night destinations.
Control Club is one of the city’s biggest dance clubs and stays open until the wee hours of the morning. With state-of-the-art sound systems and resident and guest DJs, Control draws big crowds on weekends.
Soak up the elegant ambiance at Nora’s Wine Bar while sampling their selection of over 200 Romanian and international wines. Ask the knowledgeable staff for recommendations if you’re unsure where to start.
Wherever you choose to spend your evening in Bucharest, get ready for some of the best nightlife experiences Romania’s capital has to offer!
Where to Stay
Bucharest offers a wide variety of accommodation options to fit any budget and style. Here are some of the top recommended neighborhoods and places to stay for your 1 day in Bucharest:
Old Town (Centru Vechi)
Located right in the heart of the city, Old Town is one of the best locations to stay during your visit. You’ll be walking distance to many top attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Hotels: Ramada by Wyndham Bucharest Majestic, InterContinental Bucharest, Athenee Palace Hilton
- Airbnbs: There are many modern Airbnb apartments located right in the charming historic streets of Old Town. Great way to experience like a local.
Calea Victoriei
This historic grand boulevard is home to many top luxury hotels, making it a prime place to stay during your visit.
- Hotels: Athénée Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hotel Capitol, Radisson Blu Hotel
Unirii Area
Staying near Unirii Square places you centrally near the Palace of Parliament and Old Town. Close to shopping at Unirii Shopping Center.
- Hotels: Hotel Unirii, Ramada Bucharest Convention Center, Rin Grand Hotel
- Airbnbs: The Unirii area has lots of good budget Airbnb options close to the metro.
Northern Bucharest
For those looking for more peaceful accommodation and access to Herăstrău Park, northern Bucharest offers upscale residential neighborhoods and hotels.
- Hotels: Hotel Triumph, Moxa Boutique Hotel, Hotel Ambasador
Outside City Center
If you don’t mind staying farther outside the tourist areas, hotels and Airbnbs are much more budget-friendly. Look near a metro station for easy access.
- Hotels: Rin Airport Hotel, Berthelot Hotel
- Airbnbs: Lots of budget options in residential areas outside city center.
Getting Around Bucharest
Getting around Bucharest is fairly easy thanks to the city’s extensive public transportation system. The metro and bus networks are efficient, cheap, and cover most of the city. Bucharest also has a decent number of taxis if you need to get somewhere quickly. The historic city center is very walkable as well.
Public Transportation
Bucharest’s metro system consists of 4 lines and is generally the fastest way to get around. The metro connects the city center with the main train stations and airport. Tickets are cheap – about $1 USD per ride. Buses and trams also crisscross the city. Routes are clearly marked at each station and maps are posted. You can purchase tickets at metro stations or from kiosks near bus/tram stops. Be sure to validate your ticket when you board.
Taxis
Taxis are affordable and plentiful in Bucharest, though it’s always wise to call for a cab from an official company rather than hailing one on the street. Taxi fraud unfortunately happens from time to time. Legit taxis will use the meter, give you a receipt, and not overcharge you. Know the route to your destination ahead of time so you don’t get taken the long way.
Walking
Bucharest’s historic Lipscani district is very walkable and full of sites like the Old Princely Court, Stavropoleos Church, and lots of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Much of the city center is flat and good for walking around, just be sure to watch for cars. Around Cismigiu Gardens and the Victory Avenue area are also nice pedestrian zones. Wear comfy shoes!
Day Trip Extensions
Because Bucharest makes for a great base to explore more of Romania, consider extending your visit by a day or two to visit some nearby destinations.
Bran Castle
Located in Bran about 2.5 hours from Bucharest, this iconic castle is marketed as Dracula’s Castle due to its ties to Vlad the Impaler. The fortress dates back to the 14th century and features dark interiors, secret passageways, and lovely hilltop views of the countryside. Tour the castle during the day then stay for dinner in the village below.
Brasov
The charming medieval town of Brasov deserves at least an overnight visit when basing yourself in Bucharest. Wander the scenic cobbled streets and squares, take the cable car up Tampa Mountain for views, and see historic sites like Black Church. Enjoy traditional Romanian food and stay the night here before heading back.
Sibiu
For a longer road trip, head to Sibiu about 4 hours from Bucharest. This was the European Capital of Culture in 2007, and the historical town centers around three scenic public squares. Admire the medieval atmosphere, colorful houses, and sights like the Gothic Evangelical Cathedral and Brukenthal Museum.
Sighisoara
Another potential day or overnight trip is to Sighisoara, the medieval fortified town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is the historic region where Vlad the Impaler was born, so it complements a visit to Bran Castle nicely. Wander the cobbled streets and covered staircases of the citadel for a trip back in time.
Black Sea Coast
It’s about a 2.5 hour drive from Bucharest to Romania’s Black Sea Coast. The most popular seaside town is Mamaia with its beaches, nightlife, and waterparks. Further up the coast, quainter beach towns also allow you to experience the Black Sea, relaxation on its beaches, and fresh seafood.
Conclusion
After a day exploring Romania’s capital Bucharest, you’ve seen some of the top sights and gotten a taste of the city’s history, culture, food and nightlife. Here are some final tips and highlights to recap your one day in Bucharest:
- Don’t miss People’s Palace – this massive building exemplifies the grandiose vision of Romania’s communist dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu. Still used for government today, it’s a fascinating look at the country’s not-so-distant past.
- Take time to wander Bucharest’s Old Town area, with its charming cobblestone streets, cafes, restaurants and historic architecture. This is the heart of the city and where you’ll find the bustling nightlife.
- Treat yourself to a meal at Caru’ cu Bere, a famous brewery and restaurant in a stunning 19th century building. Romanian cuisine mixes Balkan, Turkish and Central European influences – be sure to try sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and mititei grilled minced meat sausages.
- Visit the outdoor Village Museum to see Romania’s traditional peasant culture. Wander through traditional houses and farms transported from across the country.
- Don’t just stick to the Old Town at night – also check out trendy bars and clubs in areas like Lipscani. Bucharest has a vibrant nightlife scene.
- Use the inexpensive, reliable metro system to get around. But also walk as much as you can – wandering aimlessly is part of the Bucharest experience.
Thanks for joining me for this one day guide to Romania’s eclectic, historic and fast-changing capital. With this quick intro, I hope you’re inspired to return and explore Bucharest and Romania further!
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